Starting from February 14th, Bali, a popular Indonesian tourist destination, has implemented a $10 tax on incoming tourists. The tax, amounting to 150,000 rupiah, aims to contribute to the preservation of Bali’s rich culture and environment. Bali, heavily dependent on tourism, seeks to balance economic gains from visitor influx with the responsibility of conserving its natural beauty.
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The levy, payable through the “Love Bali” online portal, is applicable to foreign tourists arriving in Bali from overseas or other parts of Indonesia. Domestic Indonesian tourists are exempt from this fee. The move is part of Bali’s efforts to safeguard its cultural heritage and address incidents of disrespectful behavior by tourists, including nude photography at sacred sites and public indecency.
Bali, a predominantly Hindu island, attracted nearly 4.8 million tourists between January and November of the previous year, indicating a gradual recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The implementation of the tourist tax aligns with Bali’s commitment to maintaining its cultural integrity and enhancing the overall tourist experience. Last year, the local government published an etiquette guide for tourists, emphasizing the importance of respecting cultural norms and decorum during their visit to the island.
